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Stratford-Taumarunui
Stratford-Taumarunui Review
Known as the Forgotten World Highway, Highway 43, heading northeast from Stratford, takes travelers on an intriguing, history-rich tour of Maori and colonial heritage as it winds through rolling farmland and pristine subtropical rain forests to Taumarunui (the northern access point for the Whanganui River region). Highlights on the way include Mt. Damper Falls, the spectacular view from Tahora Saddle, the dramatic Tangarakau Gorge, two road tunnels, and riverboat-landing sites. The 155-km (96-mi) highway is sealed for all but 11 km (7 mi). Allow three hours and fill your tank before leaving Stratford.
Whangamomona Hotel. The only place to stop for refreshment along this road is the over-100-year-old Whangamomona Hotel. No worries, it's a good place—country character and hospitality at it's best. 6018 Ohura Rd., Stratford, 4396. 06/762-5823.
Stratford i-SITE Visitor Centre. For information contact the Stratford i-SITE Visitor Centre. 06/765-6708 or 0800/765-6708. www.stratfordnz.co.nz.
- Location: Stratford
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